document.write( "Question 1119416: The sum of two numbers is 103. If four times the smaller number is subtracted from the larger number, the result is 8. Find the two numbers. \n" ); document.write( "
Algebra.Com's Answer #734971 by greenestamps(13200)![]() ![]() You can put this solution on YOUR website! \n" ); document.write( "A formal algebraic solution as provided by the other tutor is of course valid; and something like that is of course required if the assignment requires an algebraic solution. \n" ); document.write( "But solving problem like this informally, through logical reasoning and a little mental arithmetic, can be excellent exercise for the brain. \n" ); document.write( "(1) The given information says that 8 remains after you subtract 4 times the smaller number from the larger. \n" ); document.write( "(2) So subtract 8 from the larger number to get a \"new\" larger number; now when 4 times the smaller is subtracted from the new larger, the result is 0. \n" ); document.write( "(3) That means the new larger number is exactly 4 times the smaller number; and that means the new sum is 5 times the smaller number. \n" ); document.write( "(4) The new sum is 103-8 = 95; that means the smaller number is 95/5 = 19. \n" ); document.write( "(5) Then the \"new\" larger number is 19*4 = 76; and so the original larger number is 76+8 = 84. \n" ); document.write( " |